How do you get your own graphics on home made pedals?

dannybuoy · #1 03-10-2008, 09:04 AM

I'm considering doing a couple of BYOC projects, maybe the Mighty Mouse, Large Beaver, and the chorus or trem.

I'd like to be able to design my own pedal graphics and paint them to a high standard - does anyone have any tips?

When I was at school we had a mini vinyl cutter that looked like a tiny printer. We used for masking up PCBs before etching them, but it could also be used for making small stickers. Anyone have such a thing or know where to get them?

stflbn · #2 03-10-2008, 09:17 AM

I'd say Vinyl cut by a sign company, or Waterslide decals that can be ran through Laser or Ink Jet printers, then Clear sealer over top much like on a bass headstock.

Alfie · #3 03-10-2008, 09:30 AM

This place sells waterslide paper in the uk:

http://www.craftycomputerpaper.co.uk...D=158&CatID=15

Once you get the hang of it it turns out really well

Liko · #4 03-10-2008, 09:33 AM

Waterslide decals. They're easy, the only limit to detail is the DPI of your printer, and if you have an inkjet that takes decal ink (can't be water-soluble for obvious reasons) it's relatively cheap. If you're only doing one or two though, you might be better off cutting some stencils and painting the graphics in layers. For instance, if you're doing Mickey Mouse, find a graphic of him that you like and print out four or five copies. Cut out the entire graphic from the piece of paper and use that for black, then cut out the other colors (yellow, white, red) seperately from each of the other stencil images and paint them one at a time over the black once the black's dried.

dannybuoy · #5 03-10-2008, 09:37 AM

Thanks, looks like waterslide decal inkjet paper is what I want, managed to find quite a few shops selling it over here in the UK. I've never heard of that stuff before.

With regards to paint, I'm thinking Hammerite. It's hard wearing and doesn't need any primer. I'm looking for a metallic paint effect like those on the BJFE pedals.

Finally, clear sealer - I had a quick look and could find various spray on and brush on types, but can anyone recommend a type or brand?

I'm thinking of putting Mighty Mouse on a BYOC Mighty Mouse - "Here I come to save the day!"

astralis · #6 03-10-2008, 11:32 AM

Pfft, decals. Nothing screams diy more than unfinished metal grey with sharpies labeling the effect and controls. I even use different colored sharpies sometimes!!!